Stainless steel cutlery is a must-have in the kitchen. It’s durable, looks sleek, and resists rust. But, over time, it can develop stains, water spots, or even tarnish—diminishing its pristine look. If your dishwasher has stubborn stains, discolouration, or grime, this guide shows you how to restore your cutlery’s shine.
To clean stainless steel cutlery, wash with warm soapy water, rinse, and dry immediately to prevent water spots. For stains, use a baking soda paste or soak in white vinegar. To remove rust, rub with lemon juice and salt. Always store dry to prevent tarnish.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- The best cleaning techniques for stainless steel cutlery
- How to remove stubborn stains using common household ingredients
- Products that effectively clean stainless steel utensils
- How to maintain and store cutlery for long-lasting shine
Let’s dive into the easiest and most effective ways to clean stainless steel cutlery!
How to Clean Stainless Steel Cutlery? (Best Everyday Cleaning Method)
For daily cleaning, the best way to clean stainless steel cutlery is by using warm soapy water and a soft cloth.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
- Step 1: Pre-rinse, run your cutlery under warm water to remove loose food particles.
- Step 2: Soak in Warm Soapy Water Fill a bowl with warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Let your cutlery soak for 5–10 minutes.
- Step 3: Scrub Gently, use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth to wipe away any residue. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that can scratch the surface.
- Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly, rinse each piece under warm water to remove all soap.
- Step 5: Dry Immediately, Use a soft towel to hand-dry the cutlery to prevent water spots and streaks.
Pro Tip: Never air-dry stainless steel cutlery, as this can lead to water spots and dullness over time!
How to Remove Stubborn Stains from Stainless Steel Cutlery?
Stainless steel cutlery can still get stains, discolouration, or rust spots, even with regular cleaning. Here are some effective solutions:
1. Cleaning Stainless Steel Cutlery with Baking Soda
Baking soda is a powerful yet non-abrasive cleaner that effectively removes stubborn stains.
- Step 1: Create a cleaning paste by mixing 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a few drops of dish soap.
- Step 2: Apply the paste to stained cutlery using a soft sponge or microfiber cloth.
- Step 3: Gently scrub in circular motions to remove tarnish and discolouration.
- Step 4: Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Best for: Removing dried-on food stains and restoring shine​.
2. Cleaning Stainless Steel Cutlery with Vinegar
White vinegar is a natural cleaner. It dissolves hard water stains and removes discolouration.
- Step 1: Fill a bowl with equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
- Step 2: Submerge the cutlery and let it soak for 5–10 minutes.
- Step 3: Use a soft sponge to gently scrub the utensils.
- Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry immediately.
Best for: Removing hard water stains and reviving dull stainless steel​.
3. Aluminium Foil & Boiling Water Trick (Deep Cleaning)
Best for: Removing tarnish and hard water stains.
- Step 1: Line a deep pan with aluminium foil, shiny side up.
- Step 2: Add 1 tbsp baking soda and a cup of boiling water.
- Step 3: Place the cutlery in the solution for 10 minutes.
- Step 4: Remove, rinse, and dry immediately.
How It Works: This method uses an electrochemical reaction to remove tarnish from stainless steel cutlery.
How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Cutlery?
Rust can form on stainless steel if it stays wet for too long or touches acidic foods. Here’s how to remove it:
Lemon Juice & Salt Method
- Step 1: Sprinkle coarse salt over the rusty areas.
- Step 2: Cut a lemon in half and rub it over the salt-covered areas.
- Step 3: Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing and drying.
Why It Works: Lemon juice has citric acid that dissolves rust. Salt is a gentle abrasive.
Preventing Stains & Maintaining Stainless Steel Cutlery
To keep your cutlery looking new for years, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- DO NOT leave cutlery soaking in water overnight.
- AVOID using chlorine-based detergents, which can cause pitting.
- NEVER store cutlery in a humid environment to prevent rust.
- STORE cutlery properly by using drawer dividers to prevent scratches.
- BUFF with olive oil occasionally to maintain a polished finish.
FAQs
Cleaning Stainless Steel Cutlery with Tin Foil and Vinegar?
Line a deep dish with aluminium foil, shiny side up. Place cutlery inside, add 1 tablespoon baking soda, and pour hot vinegar over it. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes, rinse, and dry. This chemical reaction lifts tarnish and restores stainless steel’s natural shine effortlessly.
How to Clean Cutlery Stained by the Dishwasher?
To remove dishwasher stains from stainless steel cutlery, soak them in equal parts white vinegar and warm water for 5-10 minutes. Scrub with a soft sponge, rinse thoroughly, and dry immediately with a microfiber cloth. This helps remove detergent residue, streaks, and water spots while restoring shine.
What Product is Best for Cleaning Stainless Steel Utensils?
For the best results, use Bar Keepers Friend for tough stains, Weiman Stainless Steel Cleaner for polishing, and Brasso Metal Polish for restoring shine. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth, rub in the direction of the grain, rinse thoroughly, and dry for a spotless finish.
Can you clean stainless steel cutlery with lemon?
Yes! Rubbing lemon juice on cutlery removes stains and adds shine. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
What is the best homemade cleaner for stainless steel utensils?
A mixture of baking soda and white vinegar is one of the most effective DIY stainless steel cleaners.
Why does stainless steel cutlery turn black?
Exposure to salt, acidic foods, or chlorine can cause discolouration. Regular cleaning with vinegar or baking soda can help prevent this.
How do you remove rust from stainless steel cutlery?
Use white vinegar or lemon juice to dissolve rust, then scrub gently with baking soda.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Stainless Steel Cutlery Sparkling!
Keeping stainless steel cutlery in perfect condition is simple and cost-effective if you use the right methods. No matter if you like vinegar, baking soda, or special products, regular care keeps your utensils shiny and lasting for years.
